Zaragoza

Zaragoza lies halfway between Madrid and Barcelona and is the capital of the Aragon region in northern Spain. The city sits 200 metres above sea level and has a Mediterranean climate; it is a great base for exploring the Moncayo Natyral Park and touring around the old towns of Ejea de los Caballeros and Sos del Rey Católico. Zaragoza has retained much of its former Roman layout with its medieval streets yet has a bustling and prosperous commercial district with modern boulevards and arcades.

Attractions

In the old part of the city, between the rivers of Coso and Ebro you will find endless buildings of historical interest. There is still the traditional Roman octagonal shape and many ruins can be seen.

Two of the most impressive features are the stone bridge Puente de Piedra, originally of Roman construction, standing over the widest part of the Ebro and the Basilia of our lat of El Pilar standing at the foot of the bridge with its spectacular coloured dome and four tall towers, said to be the most important structure in the region.

Zaragoza has two cathedrals and was a major pilgrimage centre. La Seo is a cathedral built on the site of an Arab mosque and other churches to be seen include San Juan de los Panetes on the banks of the Ebro, Santa Isabel, home of the Semana Santa celebrations and the impressive San Pablo. One of the city's most representative features is the Tower of La Magdalena found in the Calle Mayor.

Other interesting historical buildings include the 13th century Arab Baths situated in one of the buildings on el Coso; The local law courts, a former 16th century palace with a wonderful façade; The impressive bullring, home to a huge Sunday flea market; The 10th century Zuda Tower and the Aljafería Palace, now the seat of the Aragonese Cortes (Parliament).

Museums include the Fine Arts Museum in the Plaza de los Sitios and the Pablo Serano Museum. The Science Museum and the amusement park may be worth a visit if you have kids. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle, the Primo Rivera Park is a peaceful resting place with its large gardens and sporting facilities.

Each year in October the Fiesa Mayor takes place, there are huge celebrations and giant figures are paraded through the streets.

Shopping

You will find a good mix of major stores and little shops in the area between Residencial Paraiso in Sagasta and the Plaza de Espana. If you are looking for something a little more exclusive then check out Francisco de Vitoria, San Ignacio de Loyola and the surrounding areas. Popular products to shop for in Aragon are decorated ceramics, wrought iron, linen, silver or plastic Virgin Mary statues or products. There is a great food market which is worth wandering round and a flea market under the arches of the bullring.

Nightlife

The student population in Zaragoza has livened up the city and there are many bars, cafes and restaurants to choose from. The areas around Manifestacion Santa Isabel and Temple and Contamina have plenty of bars and clubs. Popular dishes when eating out include rabbit and chicken and locally grown fruit and vegetables eaten with world famous red wines.